The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Robert Henry Rodgers (NSN: 0-58206), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. McCAWLEY (AP-10), in combat against enemy Japanese forces during the long and arduous Solomon Islands Campaign. With brilliant seamanship and high courage, Captain Rodgers executed the extremely dangerous and vitally important tasks assigned him through many actions and over prolonged periods. Battling his way through enemy-infested waters and subjected to frequent air attacks, he transported supplies, ammunition and equipment to our combat forces throughout the theater of operations. After the McCAWLEY was torpedoed by hostile aircraft during the occupation of Rendova Island on 30 June 1943, his heroic efforts to save her and his intrepid command were responsible for keeping the loss of life to a minimum. His superb leadership and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.